No panhandling signs going up in Schenectady

SCHENECTADY, N.Y. (NEWS10) -- It’s a way for some people to make money, but for county leaders, it’s a danger. Schenectady County is standing up to panhandling.  “Panhandling in front of my street is dangerous. I don't like it because it's unsafe and people take advantage of people with disabilities,” said resident Andrew Hausar.

Schenectady County Chair, Gary Hughes, has other concerns on his mind.  “We have asked and received permission from the New York State DOT to install on the exit 4C off-ramp from 890, a sign that indicates no panhandling, no loitering. The purpose of the sign is to allow our campus safety people here and our sheriff's deputies who serve in that capacity to be able to enforce a no loitering, no standing condition that exists,” said Hughes.

This is also a concern shared by SUNY Schenectady President Dr. Steady Moonou. “That is an incredibly busy intersection and in fact we've had several accidents. So, we are concerned about the safety of that type and the safety for our students and the safety for our community members,” stated Dr. Moonou.

“Right here, this is a bad spot, a very bad spot. People sometimes don't see them and having homeless people that are panhandling like this lady here will get hit,” said Maurice Scott. NEWS10 reporter James De La Fuente spoke to that woman who told him that she was not worried about her safety and walked away. Yet, others feel differently.

“I come down because I feel bad, they're sleeping on the concrete,” said concerned resident Kimbelry Velev.

“So, when they're standing out there and they're panhandling yes, they're going to get hurt. But as long as they stay off the highway, they really don't bother me,” said concerned resident Destiny Tomchek.  

But others shared their safety concerns. “Out here all the time panhandling stopping traffic some of the times they be coming up and banging on cars,” said Scott.

“The guy got out and told this other guy and started banging on his window. Oh, it was crazy,” said Tomchek.

“And I've seen like people demanding money and that's not cool,” shared Velev.

“I think something finally needs to be said, and so I think, hopefully they work. And those people stop coming back here,” said another concerned resident.

It's a protected First Amendment right to panhandle. In fact, it's a freedom of speech. “Just like any other Free Speech you can't interfere with other operations of other people.” Partner Attorney with Tully Rinckey, Donald Chester said. Though he explained that there can be legal action taken. “You can't be aggressive with people. A panhandler who actually touches somebody, trying to get money out of them, could be accused of robbery and could be convicted of robbery.”

The signs are not the only improvement President Moonou has in his sights when it comes to student safety. “We are in conversations with the state at this point exploring moving Washington Street to the west side of the campus,” finished Moonou.